When you think, "I want to try aged sake," you'll run into the problem of not knowing which one you'll like.
After drinking several bottles in a row, you will gradually begin to see what you like, and then try a brand that is close to your preference.
This back and forth can be fun, but the difficulty is that it's hard to take the first step.
As the author of this email newsletter, I myself was in the same situation, so I understand this concern very well.
So, from among the many varieties of aged sake, we have created a trial set to help you "find your favorite," with the aim of making it "affordable, high quality, and easy to find the type you like."
What we are introducing today is the first set.
To simplify from the drinker's perspective, aged sake can also be divided into "sake to be enjoyed with a meal" and "sake to be enjoyed after a meal (or sake that is easy to enjoy on its own)."
(From the perspective of wine makers and professional tasters, there are many of the latter that are particularly appealing when paired with certain dishes, but we will not be looking at the more advanced viewpoints. Please bear with us!)
The first set is a combination of two brands of "pairing sake" and one brand of "after-meal sake."
Both of the sakes to be enjoyed with meals have the appeal of aging and are easy to pair with a wide range of food menus. They still have the potential to become even more appealing with continued aging.
"Opinion Search Trial" Set
1) Shinkame Brewery Kotori no Chizuri Junmai Ginjo 2016
As sake matures, you will first notice a mellowness that is not present in new sake. Taste elements such as umami, sourness, and slight bitterness gradually blend together to create a well-balanced finish, a common feature of high-quality matured sake.
On the other hand, you may also detect unique aged aromas (sweet nuances like caramel, or nutty aromas, etc.) as well as elements such as spices and herbs that enhance the breadth and depth of flavor.
"Kotori no Chizuru" does not emphasize the aged aroma or the complexity of the flavor (of course, it is hidden in the background if you look for it), but rather has a mellow balance of crisp umami and acidity. It is an excellent sake to drink with a wide range of dishes and you will never tire of drinking it.
When heated to a higher temperature, the balance of the sake expands and it takes on a "one-class higher physique." Its bold umami and acidity go well with steak and other meat dishes.
(2) Dewazakura Sake Brewery Karesansui Special Junmai 10-year aging
On the other hand, the Karesansui 10 Year Old is a type that clearly lets you feel the complexity (aroma and taste) that comes with aging. It also has a mellowness that comes with aging, and leaves a lasting impression with a gentle mouthfeel.
It is a gentle yet powerful sake that pairs well with strong-flavored Chinese food and yakiniku. It is also delicious served warm.
For after-meal drinks, we have selected fine sake that offers both sweetness and complexity.
(3) Enoki Shuzo Hanahato Kijoshu Oak Barrel Aged (After-meal Drink)
Rich but not cloying sweetness, complex aroma, and long aftertaste.
This is a wonderful dessert drink with a strong umami flavor.
(Although it is a different brand, Hanahato's Kijoshu was also served at the Hiroshima Summit.)
◇ Product name: Favorite Search Trial Set
Price: Regular price 9,900 yen, set special price 9,400 yen (tax included)